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Elder Abuse: Successful Frauds Share Common Elements

Get to Know Them Before They Get to Know You

By Charles Montaldo, About.com

  • The offenders gain trust and confidence through their charisma, by using a business name similar to that of a well-established organization, or by communicating a concern for the elder's well-being.

  • They create the impression that the elder has been "chosen" or is "lucky" to receive the offer, and that such offers are rare.

  • They encourage their victims to make an immediate decision or commitment to purchase products or services, which effectively limits the opportunity for consultation with others.

  • Further, since the "special" offers are available to only a select group of customers, the offenders ask the victims to be discreet and not discuss the details, shrouding the transaction in secrecy and decreasing the chance of discovery by a family member, neighbor, or other concerned party.

The frauds occur quickly, with little risk of exposure.

Source:National Criminal Justice Reference Service

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